A North Staffordshire based business network, founded by business and training entrepreneur Steve Rushton has generated over £500,000 in new business in just nine months.
The Training and Business Solutions Ltd trusted partners scheme now has 30 member companies, with the majority being based in Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, and the Staffordshire Moorlands.
“Much of my business life is about putting businesses together, so I seized the opportunity to create my own business referral scheme,” said Steve. “I have developed a network of business providers I know I can trust and I work to provide them with opportunities. It has gone even better than I could have expected, and the added bonus is that we are keeping the money in the local economy with partners using each other for services from insurance to employee driver training and supporting the wider North Staffordshire business community.
“Because I personally know the business owners and managers involved in the scheme, I can confidently say I am referring experts to anyone who asks me to recommend potential suppliers.”
Many Training and Business Solutions Trusted Partners are also members of the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce where Steve has been appointed as a Chamber Ambassador.
Steve added: “I work extensively with my local chamber of commerce and you will often find me using the excellent member facilities at Commerce House, on Festival Park. During the last 12 months, I have received 83 referrals from the Chamber of Commerce, supported 64 members, and placed apprentices with 27 chamber members.
“I have also delivered workshops for the chamber and organised the Business Unleashed event to promote chamber membership. I would advise all companies to get involved with their local chamber to help create strong roots in their communities.”
AMB Insurance, based in Wolstanton, are among companies benefitting. Development Director Mark Jones said: “Being a Trusted Partner with Training and Business Solutions is achieving excellent results for AMB. It’s great to see how it’s opening doors for local businesses who are looking for a local broker to provide clarity in the risks within their businesses.
“Steve has got a real knack for bringing the right people into the room and creating opportunities that feel genuine and mutually beneficial. It’s not just about business – it’s about building a local network that you can trust.”
Steve launched Training and Business Solutions in late 2022 using his extensive background in business development and training.
The training arm works with companies seeking apprentices and with anyone seeking an apprenticeship. Since its launch, Training and Business Solutions has created 343 apprenticeship and training opportunities, including 197 for 16-to-21-year-olds.
Steve is also an official Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Apprenticeships Ambassador, creating his own events, and working in schools to promote apprenticeships and raise aspirations.
He has spent almost 30 years working in business development and training. Prior to founding his own business, Steve was Director of Partnerships at training provider Achieve Training for more than 12 years.
ENDS
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